CM describes Chouhan well wisher
Irfan Tramboo
SRINAGAR, Apr 28: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today described Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan as a “true friend” and “well-wisher” of the people of J&K and said work on projects sanctioned under PMGSY-IV would begin in the coming months.
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Addressing a gathering here at SKICC on the launch event of PMGSY-IV, Batch-II, Omar said the Centre’s approval of projects under the scheme would provide a major boost to rural connectivity, and assured timely execution.
“Such a large sanction in a single phase is extraordinary, and we will ensure speedy implementation on the ground,” he said.
“I will not make demands. Instead, I assure you that in the coming months, work on the sanctioned projects will begin. When you are satisfied with our work, we will come back with further requests,” Omar said.
He stressed that while the projects have been sanctioned by the Union Government, the J&K would ensure efficient and time-bound implementation on ground.
Welcoming the visiting Union Minister, Omar expressed gratitude for the Centre’s continued support to the Union Territory’s development.
“I wholeheartedly welcome Shivraj Singh Chouhan to Srinagar and express my gratitude. You have repeatedly demonstrated that you are a true friend and well-wisher of the people of J&K,” he said.
Referring to Chouhan’s public connect, Abdullah said the affection associated with him was widely recognised.
“The affection you have earned as ‘Mama’ is well-deserved. We have accepted you with the same warmth and trust,” he added.
Highlighting the impact of road connectivity, Abdullah said PMGSY has transformed rural life by improving access to essential services.
“Roads change people’s lives. Those who once walked for hours to reach a road now have access to schools, hospitals and markets,” he said.
He underlined the need to connect all remaining unserved habitations, noting that a significant portion of the population resides in rural areas.
“Our heart lies in our villages, where nearly half the population lives. The rural economy must be strengthened through connectivity, agriculture and other initiatives,” Omar said.
He said that the Government would ensure effective utilisation of funds and adherence to timelines so that benefits reach people without delay.
“Our responsibility is to ensure the matching share and proper implementation so that people benefit on the ground,” he said.
Referring to recent measures, the Chief Minister said the administration was addressing weather-related losses faced by farmers and horticulturists.
“We are addressing weather-related losses, and crop insurance for horticulture has been announced in this year’s budget to mitigate such risks,” he said.
Expressing optimism, he said he envisioned “Lakhpati Didis” progressing to “Crorepati Didis” through sustained support and expanded economic opportunities under NRLM initiatives.
Reiterating the broader vision, Omar said the Government remained committed to building a “prosperous and developed J&K” in alignment with the national goal of “Viksit Bharat.” “Whatever support you have extended and will continue to extend to J&K will contribute to the mission of a developed India. These schemes will transform the future of our people,” he added.
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